When it comes to Hiroshima tourism, many visitors opt for the Shinkansen or local trams and buses, but if you want to deeply explore this city rich with historical depth, natural beauty, and culinary character—and the surrounding areas—renting a car for a self-driving tour is the most free and efficient option. Hiroshima, as a major transportation hub in Western Japan, not only possesses profound historical and cultural heritage, but is also the ideal departure point for reaching the Setouchi islands and the old town of Onomichi. Renting a car not only allows you to explore at your own pace, but also lets you discover hidden gems that are not easily accessible by public transportation.
Unique Advantages of Renting a Car in Hiroshima
The advantage of car rental in Hiroshima lies in its geographic location. To the east, you can directly reach Onomichi's nostalgic harbor town and Senko-ji Temple; to the south, Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima is just 20 minutes away; to the north lie the tranquil mountain hot springs and rural landscapes. Especially for visitors who want to experience both urban culture and countryside scenery, renting a car provides flexible itinerary planning. Additionally, Hiroshima's road conditions are relatively good, with an extensive network of national roads and expressways and clear English signage, making it relatively accessible for foreign visitors.
In recent years, global fuel prices have fluctuated significantly, which is also reflected in Japan's car rental rates. It is recommended to inquire during booking whether gasoline fees are included or if additional fuel surcharges apply, so you can plan your budget accordingly.
Recommended Rental Pick-up Locations
1. Rental Offices Near Hiroshima Station
Rental offices located in Hiroshima's Naka Ward, near Hiroshima Station, are the most convenient choice. Shinkansen passengers can go directly to the counter after getting off—no transfers required. These offices typically operate late into the evening and offer a wide range of vehicle options, from mini-cars to seven-passenger vans. Since most Shinkansen and airplane arrivals rent cars here, advance booking is essential during peak seasons.
2. Hiroshima Airport Rental Offices
If you arrive by plane at Hiroshima International Airport (in Hiroshima's Higashi Ward), the rental office inside the airport is directly connected, making the process most efficient. Airport office fleets are usually newer and well-equipped. The downside is the airport's eastern location—getting to Miyajima or Onomichi takes 30-50 minutes by car.
3. Community Rental Offices Along City Center Routes
Several community rental offices are distributed throughout Hiroshima's commercial areas such as Heiwa Odori and Kamiyacho, catering to visitors who have stayed in Hiroshima for a day or two and decide on a whim to rent a car. These locations are smaller in scale, but staff are often more familiar with local road conditions and can provide practical sightseeing recommendations.
Recommended Self-Driving Routes and Destinations
Miyajima Itsukushima Shrine Route: Departing from Hiroshima Station via the Sanyo Expressway takes about 30 minutes to Miyajimaguchi. This route is best for first-time visitors and can be completed in half a day round-trip. You can make a brief stop at Hiroshima Bay Coastal Road along the way to enjoy the Setouchi scenery.
Onomichi Nostalgic Old Town Route: Driving east along National Route 2 takes about 1 hour to reach Onomichi. This harbor town nestled between mountains and sea preserves the charm of the Showa era, where narrow alleys, temples, and sloping streets weave together into enchanting walking routes. The advantage of having a rental car is the ability to stop flexibly at observation parking lots on hilltop temples to enjoy panoramic views of the Setouchi Sea, without being constrained by bus schedules.
Miyoshi · Shobara Mountain Area Route: Driving north to Hiroshima's northern mountain region, you can explore traditional farming villages, sake breweries, and local cuisine along National Routes 54 and 183. This route has some road condition variations, making car rental the perfect balance of time and convenience.
Useful Information
*Rental Rates*: Regular mini-cars (kei cars) cost approximately ¥4,500-6,500 per day; mid-size cars approximately ¥6,500-9,000. Rates may increase 20-30% during peak travel seasons (spring cherry blossoms, autumn foliage). International driver's licenses and Taiwanese license translations are both recognized; you must be at least 18 years old, though some companies require 21.
*Insurance and Fees*: Basic collision insurance is usually included, but it is recommended to purchase full coverage (approximately ¥1,000-1,500/day) for peace of mind. When refueling, note whether it's self-service or full-service—full-service stations are usually more expensive.
*Parking Information*: Hiroshima city center parking costs range from approximately ¥200 per 30 minutes to ¥500 per hour; parking at Miyajimaguchi and Onomichi is cheaper, approximately ¥300-500 per day. Some minshuku (traditional guesthouses) and hotels offer free parking—inquire when booking.
*Business Hours*: Most rental offices operate until 18:00-20:00; Hiroshima Station and airport offices typically stay open until late evening (21:00-22:00). Advance booking ensures vehicle availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
*Roads and Fuel*: Hiroshima's national roads and expressways have clear signage, and gas stations are densely distributed. The ETC automatic toll system covers major expressways, and temporary ETC cards can be applied for when renting a car.
Travel Tips
• Best Time: Spring and Autumn: April cherry blossoms and October-November autumn foliage are the busiest periods for car rental tourists—be sure to book 2-3 weeks in advance.
• Plan a Circular Route: Starting from Hiroshima city, you can plan a 3-4 day circular self-driving route passing through Miyajima → Onomichi → Northern Mountain Region → return to Hiroshima, making the most of your rental car's flexibility.
• Savor Local Cuisine: After renting a car, visit rural hotels and eateries outside the city center to taste authentic Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, oysters, and mountain regional cuisine. Many famous restaurants have no direct bus access—renting a car is essential.
• Prepare Your International License: Apply for an international driver's license in Taiwan before your trip to avoid troubles upon arrival in Japan.
• Ask About Fuel Costs in Advance: With recent global fuel market fluctuations, be sure to confirm whether gasoline fees are included in the rental or if additional payment is required.
• GPS and Offline Maps: You can rent Japanese GPS navigation systems when picking up your car, or download offline map apps in advance (such as Google Maps offline version)—mountain signal can sometimes be unstable.
Car rental self-driving in Hiroshima is not just a mode of transportation—it's a deep cultural and nature journey. Whether visiting historical sites, enjoying Setouchi scenery, or discovering hidden culinary treasures, renting a car makes your Hiroshima trip more free and more unforgettable.
